Motorcycle specifications BMW Concept R18 /2 2020 Bavarian soufflé

While we wait for the next big 1800 cm3 cruiser to be unveiled, BMW presents a new concept based on its big boxer engine: the Concept R 18 /2 (pronounced: "Slash Two"). It presents itself as the stylistic opposite of the Concept R 18: a modern, dynamic custom cruiser, showing a certain appetite for performance with slightly sharper lines. As such, the Concept R 18 /2 presents another potential expression of the Heritage concept, providing an example of the flexibility and numerous customization possibilities offered by the basic architecture.

a high-performance cruiser "à la BMW".

The Concept R 18 /2 is both sporty and modern. Minimalist handlebars and deep, elongated proportions promise a dynamic riding experience. The fairing, fuel tank and seat form a flowing line that finds its conclusion in the shortened rear mudguard. All body elements are finished in Candy Apple Red metallic, an expressive shade of red that emphasizes the fluid movement to the side. This luminous red is a real eye-catcher, varying from bright red to almost black depending on the incidence of light. Another striking feature is created by the graphic lines on the painted parts of the body, which extend down the side and over the fuel tank to the wheel cover, and visually continue over the seat. They give the Concept R 18 /2 a distinctive appeal.

the big boxer in the middle.

As on the Concept R 18, the centerpiece of the Concept R 18 /2 is a twin-cylinder 1800 cm3 big boxer engine, with modern air/oil cooling, designed in a 1960s aesthetic. The engine is finished in a warm, sporty grey, with integrated chest cover, gloss black valve covers and black frame. The engine badge bears the concept's name, as a token of exclusivity. After "Departed" by Japanese customizer CUSTOMWORKS ZON, "The Revival Birdcage" by Revival Cycles in Austin (Texas) and the Concept R 18, the R 18 /2 is now the fourth interpretation of the Behemoth boxer engine.

attention to detail.

As an authentic BMW, the Concept R 18 /2 features not only a boxer engine, loop frame and teardrop fuel tank, but also a classic, elegantly enhanced universal shaft. Cast-iron 19" front and 16" rear wheels give an equally understated and dynamic dragster look, rounding out the bike's overall appearance, while features such as Brembo brake calipers and the Hattech stainless steel output system reflect the care taken in designing the Concept R 18 /2.

a multitude of possibilities.

The Concept R 18 /2 offers a new interpretation of a high-performance cruiser in an area as yet unexplored by BMW Motorrad, while demonstrating the true versatility of the big boxer platform."After the BMW Motorrad Concept R 18, our aim with the Concept R 18 /2 is to demonstrate how flexible the basic engine and suspension are as a starting point for customization, and how easy it is to achieve different authentic styles. And I have to admit that we were very impressed by the way it was possible to take this boxer concept from the 1930s through the 1980s to the 2020s", says Bart Janssen Groesbeek, BMW Motorrad big boxer concept designer.

Image and info credits: BMW